Nursing Homes Support Scheme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 June 2015

Tuesday, 9 June 2015

Ceisteanna (762)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

762. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if consideration will be given to extending the fair deal scheme to cover access by Border area residents of this State to available beds in nursing homes north of the Border, most often the closest such facility to their homes and community, to which support previously applied; the reason this support for cross-Border access ceased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21811/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health

The Nursing Homes Support Scheme does not extend to nursing homes in Northern Ireland. This issue was given careful consideration before the Scheme was introduced in 2009. The decision not to extend the Scheme to Northern Ireland was taken by the Government of the day on the basis of legal advice received from the Attorney General's Office.